The synthesis of potential biofuel 5-ethoxymethylfurfural: A review

The development of liquid fuel and fuel additive synthesis from abundant biomass substrates has obtained much attention in recent years. Among the proposed bio-fuels, 5-Ethoxymethylfurfural (5-EMF) is one of the most desirable gasoline alternatives because of its high stability, environment-friendly, and high energy density. More importantly, 5-EMF could be directly prepared from bio-based materials through etherification reactions in ethanol by straightforward synthetic methods from different biomass or bio-derived substrates, including 5Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF), fructose, glucose, and raw biomass. Given the apparent differences and crossover of catalytic approaches in the synthesis of 5-EMF from different feedstocks in the current publications. This paper reviews the research focus and catalyst characteristics in synthesizing 5-EMF using different feedstocks and compares the catalytic effect and mechanism of action of these catalysts in preparing 5-EMF. Hopefully, this review will facilitate and inspire future research on 5-EMF synthesis.

Automated summary

The synthesis of liquid fuel and fuel additives from biomass substrates has gained significant attention in recent years. 5-Ethoxymethylfurfural (5-EMF) is a highly desirable alternative to gasoline due to its stability, environmental friendliness, and high energy density. This paper reviews the research focus and characteristics of catalysts in synthesizing 5-EMF from different feedstocks, and compares the catalytic effect and mechanism of action of these catalysts. It aims to facilitate and inspire future research on 5-EMF synthesis.